Page 119 - Meeting with Children Book

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b) When the child moves from one activity to another and
c) when the child uses toys or objects that allows for gross
motor movement (Linder, 2001). What is typical?

Considerations are given to the size of the child as well as
any genetic abnormalities and uneven growth regarding
limbs (arms, legs). Other factors relate to muscle tone,
strength and endurance, reactivity to sensory input, how
the child positions his/her body during play (playing on
stomach, back, sitting, play on hands and knees and
standing). The observer will also pay attention to mobility
in play and specific developmental achievements.

During this period of development, the brain is rapidly
growing and organizing. By the age of 2, the brain weighs
75% of its eventual adult weight. Perry (1997) notes:
With a set of sufficient motor, sensory, emotional, cognitive,
and social experiences during infancy and childhood, the
mature brain develops in a use-dependent fashion, a
mature, humane capacity to tolerate frustration, contain
impulsivity, and channel aggressive urges. (p.129)

The observations of motor and sensory development are
important as early childhood is the time period of laying all
early foundations upon which every other age-band
depends.

What can be expected from a normally
developing 1.5- 4 year old?
Look for the following:
1.5 yrs plus Can seat self in small chair (mobility)
1.5 yrs plus Does not fall often (runs stiffly, eyes
on ground) (mobility)
1.5 yrs plus Can squat to play (mobility)
2-2.5 yrs plus Can run, use whole foot contact; stops
and starts (mobility)